SART

The Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS) is committed to providing high-quality forensic science services to the residents and visitors to the District of Columbia. In situations of sexual assault, the DFS conducts testing with the goal of using the physical evidence to help determine both what happened and who may be involved. By providing timely services, the DFS not only enhances public safety but also provides scientific information to victims and survivors about their sexual assault. Consistent with the mission of the DC government, the DFS is an active member of the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART).

SART is a multidisciplinary group of public and private organizations working to coordinate services to survivors of sexual assault in the District of Columbia. The bimonthly meetings allow for better communication between the agencies that respond to survivors of sexual assault. The DFS is also one of the members of the bimonthly case review subcommittee. This subcommittee evaluates how to improve the process for handling cases from the first report, through investigation and prosecution as well as advocacy and counseling.